The purchase and installation of a new HVAC system is a big investment, requiring a decision that will affect your daily comfort for years to come. So, you cannot be too careful about making your choice. Consider the available system types, their heating & cooling capacity, energy efficiency, features, price estimate, and warranty before choosing one. Then, turn to a local professional to provide a trustworthy and effective furnace and air conditioning installation.

Argent Heating & Cooling offers HVAC installations, repairs, and replacements in the Washington, DC, Metro area. With over 30 years of experience and a team of certified technicians, we can meet the needs of your home. In addition to heating and cooling, our services include generator, radiant floor heating, and hydronic heating installation and maintenance. Contact us today at (703) 281-6300.

Below, we discuss 5 things you should consider before selecting a new HVAC system:

1. System Type

Before selecting a new HVAC system for your home, learn about the system you already have. If it seems to be malfunctioning, a technician can help you determine whether it needs new parts or complete replacement. To do so, they can inspect its components: ductwork, ventilation, wiring, and controls.

If you need a replacement system, you must first decide between a furnace and air conditioner duo or a heat pump. Furnaces and air conditioners require more energy than heat pumps because they heat and cool air. However, they operate more effectively in extreme temperatures than heat pumps.

Heat pumps pull the appropriate temperature of air from the outdoors to heat or cool a home. This capability makes them more energy-efficient than furnaces and air conditioners in moderate temperatures. But heat pumps’ efficiency decreases in temperatures lower than 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Heating & Cooling Capacity

Next, ask an HVAC technician to determine the heating and cooling capacities required for your home. To do so, professionals use a formula based on your interior’s square footage. They also consider the amount of shade and light your home receives. Inform your technician where you do not want to control the temperature

3. Energy Efficiency

Then, consider energy use. A heating and cooling system will account for about half of the average home’s energy use. Still, keep some energy-efficiency statistics in mind as you choose the best system for your needs:

• Furnaces: In the US, you can purchase a 78–96% efficient furnace for a reasonable price. Such a model can save you up to 50% in operating costs compared to a 10-year-old furnace.
• Air Conditioners:  Using the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), look for an AC model with an energy efficiency number of 13 or higher.
• Heat Pumps: Heat pumps receive both a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) and SEER rating. The higher a model’s HSPF, the greater its efficiency. Most heat pumps have an HSPF of 9 or 10. You should look for models with a SEER number of 12 or more.

4. System Features

Also, depending on your system’s location in your home, you may want to look for a model with a low noise level. 60 decibels or less will provide you with a quiet system.

Consider other features, such as indoor air quality. Although air filter quality depends largely on its cleanliness, you must find a system compatible with a high-quality filter. Furthermore, consider the air purification system and humidification control of your new HVAC system for the best indoor air quality.

5. Estimate & Warranty

Finally, the cost of your system will depend on the in-person estimate. Therefore, seek several estimates for your HVAC system to ensure the best deal for your needs.

Also, consider both the service and system warranty. Your system’s life depends on its brand, model, and whether it receives regular maintenance. Most HVAC system warranties do not cover issues due to lack of maintenance, so schedule regular maintenance or consider a planned maintenance program with Argent.

Argent Heating & Cooling: Air Conditioning Installation in the Washington, DC, Metro Area

Turn to Argent Heating & Cooling for a swift and accurate air conditioning installation in the Washington, DC, Metro area. Our technicians practice cleanliness, timeliness, and effective communication to ensure a job well done. We also offer 24/7 support services in case of emergency. Improve the energy and health of your home with our high-quality HVAC products. Contact us at (703) 281-6300 or schedule a service call.